1970

UGRD Arts & Sciences '70

Zygmunt "Zig" G. Wiedemann '70

Zygmunt "Zig" G. Wiedemann '70 on July 21, 2010 in Santa Clara. He was born in San Francisco on February 23, 1948. He fought a valiant and graceful battle with Waldenstrom's Macroglobulin Anemia. He is survived by his wife, Nikki, daughter Victoria, sister Kathleen, and his best friend Mike Bendon. He was a raconteur, dreamer, realist, contrarian, intrepid traveler, bon vivant and a great friend. He had an extraordinarily kind and generous heart. He cherished tradition and broke the rules. Zig graduated from Santa Clara University with a degree in finance and remained a lifelong Bronco supporter. He was a retired Major in the U.S. Army Reserve. Zig also attended Pepperdine and was a thesis away from his master's in Organizational Development. His business focus was to make people comfortable with computers and technology. A fund has been set up at SCU in Zig's honor. If you wish, make checks payable to Santa Clara Athletics, and indicate Zig Wiedemann Memorial Fund in the memo line. Mail to Department of Athletics, Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, California 95053-1100 attn: Liz Courter.

submitted Aug. 11, 2010 2:33P

UGRD Arts & Sciences '70

Wayne E. Eldredge

Wayne E. Eldredge '70 on november 19, 2007.

submitted Nov. 2, 2009 4:09P

'70

Thomas W. Cain

For more than two decades, Judge Thomas W. Cain '70, J.D. '73 stayed one step ahead of cancer as the disease ravaged his body, all while overseeing some of Silicon Valley's most colorful estate cases. But after 27 surgeries and multiple rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, the popular Santa Clara County Superior Court judge succumbed on Jan. 11, 2014, at age 65.

At Cain's request, no memorial service will be held. Instead, he asked friends and colleagues to honor his memory by performing a random act of kindness.

"Tom was a great person," Presiding Judge Brian C. Walsh said in a written statement. "He was uncomplainingly helpful to all of his colleagues," and known for "his indelible spirit, optimism and kindness."

In his 24 years on the bench, Cain never put in for a particular judicial assignment, such as criminal courts or probate, as most judges do. Instead, he'd always write on the annual request form, "Where ever the presiding judge needs me," Walsh said.

Recently, Cain presided over two high-profile probate cases. One was the dispute over Monte Sereno millionaire Ravi Kumra's estate after he was slain in a botched robbery at his mansion. The other was the showdown between painter Thomas Kinkade's estranged wife and his live-in girlfriend. The women in the Kinkade matter wound up reaching a secret settlement. In the Kumra case, Cain ruled that two school-age daughters of a former prostitute not connected to his slaying were, in fact, Kumra's biological children and entitled to a monthly family allowance.

Cain was appointed by Gov. George Deukmejian in late 1989 after working as a lawyer in the Santa Clara County Counsel's Office. But he didn't just preside over legal cases. He also helped decide cooking competitions long before the Food Network made such contests popular. As a certified "Kansas City Barbecue Judge," he judged the "Jack Daniels' World Invitational Barbecue Competition" in Lynchburg, Tenn.

An avid cook, the judge also won an award from Sunset magazine for his salmon recipe. The magazine published the judge's recipe for oven-baked "Oriental Fish and Chips" in the August 1996 edition, complimenting him for his "striking presentation" of "potato-encrusted fish with a confetti of red and yellow bell peppers topped with steamed asparagus spears brushed with olive oil and browned under the broiler." "Cooking was his passion," his sister Pat Thompson said.

Cain was born in Maryland in 1948 and moved to San Jose with his family in 1956. He was the oldest of three children and the only boy. Elected class president at one point, he decided at an early age to become a lawyer, Thompson said.

"You never wanted to play Monopoly with him because he could B.S. his way through anything, which is important for being a lawyer," she said.

Last year, he received an award for outstanding service to the probate bar from by the Silicon Valley Bar Association. During his career, he also served as an instructor at Lincoln University School of Law and guest instructor in Southern Russia in a program sponsored by the American Bar Association.

Cain loved sports, so much so that he'd watch soccer even if it was broadcast on a foreign language station. He also attended spring training in Arizona for the Giants and the A's every season.

At Cain’s request, instead of a memorial service, he asked friends and colleagues to honor his memory by performing a random act of kindness. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, a contribution to his memory be made to Optimal Hospice in Santa Clara. Any sympathy notes may be sent to Campus Ministry which will be forwarded to the family.

submitted Jan. 16, 2014 10:29A

GRD Ed./Couns Psych./Pastoral Min. '70

Sister Blanche Bilodeau

Sister Blanche Bilodeau M.S. '70 died on November 19, 2010. Formerly known as Sister Alphonse, age 85, a member of the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity, she passed away at Holy Family Convent, Manitowoc. The former Blanche Bilodeau was born on July 14, 1925, in Rice Lake, Wis., daughter of the late Alphonseand Laura (Couture) Bilodeau. She entered the Convent in 1939 and professed her vows in 1943. Sister Blanche earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Holy Family College and a Master of Science from Santa Clara University. Sister Blanche served as a teacher and/or principal at St. Boniface, Manitowoc; St. Joseph, Green Bay; St. Joseph, Rice Lake, Wis.; St. Francis Xavier, Petoskey, Mich.; San Rogue, Santa Barbara, Bishop Amat High School and St. Christopher, West Covina, Calif.; St. Francis and Immaculate Conception, Yuma, Ariz.; Cathedral, Honolulu, Hawaii; Holy Family High, Lindsay, Neb.; and Rosecrans High School, Zanesville, Ohio. She also served as a tutor at Central Catholic High School, West Point, Neb., and Catholic Memorial High School, Waukesha, and was a helper in the Special Education Clinic and Print Shop at Silver Lake College, Manitowoc. She retired to St. Francis Convent, Manitowoc, where she performed various tasks for the sisters. Since 2005, she had been residing in St. Rita Health Center at the Motherhouse. Survivors include the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity; a brother, Ray Bilodeau, Kihei, Hawaii; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

submitted Dec. 6, 2010 10:14A

'70

Robert M. Tobin

Robert Myles Tobin ’70, J.D. ’74, a resident of Los Gatos, passed away on June 7, 2014, surrounded by family and friends. Bob was born on Sept. 23, 1948, and raised in Marin County in the idyllic town of Fairfax, Calif. He attended Sir Francis Drake High School in San Anselmo, Calif. and was a star athlete. Bob participated in multiple sports, which resulted in scholarships to the University of Santa Clara, where he played on the power-house, nationally ranked Bronco basketball teams of 1967–70.

After graduation from college in 1970, he entered the U.S. Army Reserves, and was stationed in Ft. Ord, Calif. Upon his honorable discharge, he entered law school at the University of Santa Clara, and became a licensed California lawyer in June of 1975. Thereafter, Bob became a very successful trial lawyer, having enjoyed employment and partnership with the San Jose law firms of Hoge, Fenton, Jones, and Appel, and Rankin Oneal, before eventually going into solo practice.

On a personal level, Bob never met a stranger and his circle of friends was wide and varied from all walks of life. Bob had a big heart, was generous to a fault and would give anyone the shirt off his back. He exuded charm and with his tall good looks was a presence in any room. He had a sharp wit and keen sense of humor and laughed easily at life's many foibles and characters.
He embraced life and all it had to offer, having traveled worldwide and having lived abroad.

Bob is survived by his mother, Dorothy Paterson Tobin of San Rafael, Calif., his sister Catherine Tobin of Greenbrae, his sister Colleen Tobin Finney and brother-in-law Butch Finney of Novato, Calif., his brother Myles Stephen Tobin and his sister-in-law Sue Tobin of San Jose, Calif., a niece, and his best friend Jeannie Starcevich. He is preceded in death by his father, Myles Tobin, his beloved uncle, Fr. William Tobin, S.J., as well as his beloved dog Poppy.

submitted Jun. 21, 2014 11:13A

UGRD Arts & Sciences '70

Robert E. Wilkins

Robert E. Wilkins '70 on April 22, 2010.

submitted Jun. 7, 2010 11:17A

'70

Robert D. Jones

Robert "Bob" Doyle Jones MBA '70 passed away peacefully on Monday, May 26, 2014, surrounded by family at Stanford Hospital in California. He was born on Nov. 26, 1939. Bob attended South Bend Central High. He earned a B.S. in engineering from Purdue University, and an MBA from Santa Clara University. Bob was an officer in the U.S. Navy. He married Florence Jones in 1964. In 1984, Bob was one of the founders of Celeritek. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Florence, son, Scott, daughter, Leslie, sister, Gayle Gartee, brother-in-law, Wally Gar-tee, niece, Shari Haller, & niece, Michelle Van Goey.

submitted Aug. 14, 2014 11:09P

GRD Leavey/MBA '70

Rich Bryant

Richard "Rich" Anthony Bryant MBA '70 was born in Alameda, Calif. on Sep. 30, 1935, to Doris and Walter Bryant. He passed away on Aug. 18, 2014, in Las Vegas, Nev. He was 78 years old. Rich spent his childhood in Alameda and Mill Valley, Calif. before his family relocated to Honolulu, Hawaii in 1951, where he attended Roosevelt High School. Rich "Big Red" Bryant was a decorated track and field athlete. He was the Interscholastic Champion as well as the Hawaiian Islands Champion in the quarter mile event in 1954. Upon graduation, Rich returned to California to attend Fresno State College. He continued his athletic excellence by winning the West Coast Relays as a member of the championship mile relay team in 1955. He was also a proud member of the Fresno State chapter of Sigma Chi. Rich completed his Bachelor's degree at California State University, San Jose and later would receive his Master's degree from Santa Clara University.

Rich served his country as a Marine and in the United States Army Reserve Corps. He was stationed at Twenty Nine Palms, Calif. and played competitive football for the Marines' travel team. After living in both the Monterey and San Francisco Bay areas, Rich returned to Fresno in 1992, to establish Assured Mortgage Company. He found great joy being a successful business owner. Rich was a most adventurous person. He enjoyed a lifelong love of the outdoors and fishing. He enjoyed traveling the world and was blessed to be able to travel the world extensively with his family. He will forever be remembered as a happy man, with an infectious smile, who was kind, generous and loving. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and business associates. God bless you "Dad", "Pee Pa", "Uncle Rich", we love you.

Richard was preceded in death by his brothers, Walter "Bud" and Michael "Mike" Bryant; his sister, Gloria Strider; and his niece, Susan Ann Lawrence (Strider). He is survived by his devoted son, Collin Bryant and wife Nikki; his brother, Steve Bryant and wife Betsy; his former wife, Allaire Toddhunter Bryant; his godson and nephew, Sean Christopher Bryant; his most treasured granddaughters, Hunter and Hayden Bryant; as well as countless nieces and nephews.

submitted Oct. 30, 2014 1:33P

UGRD Leavey Business '70

Patrick Crahan

Patrick Michael Crahan ’70, 66, of Dubuque, Wisconsin, and Mill Valley, Calif., died at home in Mill Valley on Sept. 12, 2014.

Patrick was born in Minneapolis on April 13, 1948, and grew up in Dubuque, attending Campion High School in Prairie du Chien, Wis., where the nickname "PC" took hold. He graduated from Santa Clara University in 1970, served in the United States Army, and received his MBA from Golden Gate University in 1973.

Patrick married Carla Tofanelli in 1975. They lived in the San Francisco Bay Area before moving to North Lake Tahoe in 1979. There he received his CPA while working for the accounting firm Frank Mooney & Company. In 1983, they moved to Dubuque to join Flexsteel Industries, enjoying 30 years of dedication to the company.

He devoted his life to his family, to his Catholic faith and to his friends, regularly celebrating with a love of music, gift of laughter and welcoming spirit. He was a natural leader, serving on many boards, including the University of Dubuque, Dubuque Bank and Trust, Dubuque Racing Association, Greater Dubuque Development Corporation and Flexsteel Industries. Illness prompted his retirement in 2013 and relocation to California for treatment of glioblastoma.

He is survived by his wife and two children, Page Rahn ’03 (Ken), of San Francisco, and Andrew, of Kauai; his father, Jack B. Crahan and brother, Kevin Crahan, both of Dubuque; his sister, Colleen McCarthy, of Bethesda, Md., and his golden retriever, Lucia. His mother, Peggy Furey Crahan, died in 2002.

submitted Oct. 30, 2014 8:56A

GRD Leavey/MBA '70

Melvin W. "Mel" Schult

Melvin Schult MBA '70 on January 8, 2010. He joins his wife of 51 years, Norma J. Schult, who died May 17, 2007. They rest together. Mel completes a life of accomplishments in academics, a successful professional career and community involvement. He graduated from Redmond Union High School in 1950. Mel was a veteran serving in the U.S. Air Force for four years and reached the rank of captain. He graduated from Oregon State University and received an Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Santa Clara University. Mel was a financial officer for Beaver Coaches and RDC Machining. He enjoyed building the homes he shared with Norma and outdoor recreation including hiking, boating and fishing. Melvin is survived by his son, Bryan and Della and their sons, Gregory, Nick, and Shawn. He is also survived by his sister, Vernell Whipple and her husband, Don; two brothers, Dale Schult and his wife, JoAnne and Earl Schult and his wife, Marionne; and Norma's brothers, Darrel and Norvin and his wife, Evelyn Liska.

submitted May. 25, 2010 2:21P

GRD Leavey/MBA '70

Marion S. Jones

Marion S. Jones MBA '70 on July 15, 2010.

submitted Sep. 3, 2010 11:11A

GRD Ed./Couns Psych./Pastoral Min. '70

John T. Swan

John T. Swan M.A. '70, born May 25, 1929 in Columbus, Ohio, passed away October 4, 2011, in Palmdale, Calif. "Jack," as he was affectionately known, attended high school at North High in Columbus, graduated from Kent State University in Ohio and received his Masters Degree in Education from Santa Clara University in California. He served in the U.S. Navy as a Seabee (the Construction Battalion) in the Philippines. After the Navy, Swan and his wife Vivian "Sue" settled in Southern California where he began his career as a teacher at East L.A. High School. They moved their family to the Antelope Valley in 1963, and he continued teaching Industrial Arts and Math at Palmdale High School until his retirement in 1991. He was accomplished in all aspects of construction, from concrete to finish carpentry. He worked on many homes in the valley when he was not teaching. Swan was also a self-taught songwriter/composer and was recently working with his sons on publishing music he wrote in the late 1940s and throughout the 1950s. He was an active member of the Quartz Hill Congregation of Jehovahs Witnesses. His family will remember him as a wonderful father; his many students, as a great teacher and everyone will miss his terrific sense of humor and unconditional love for others. Jack was widowed from Sue in 2007, and lost his youngest son Kenny in 2010. He is survived by his eldest son Michael and his two children Chris and Erin; his second son and daughter-in-law Jeff and Susie and their two children Matt and Jake; his only daughter and son-in-law Kathy and Wayne Petermann and their two daughters Lindsay and Shannon; Kennys daughter Tiffany Swan and her son Adam Jr.

submitted Oct. 21, 2011 3:40P

'70

John Albanese

John Louis Albanese ’70, June 26, 2014. A resident of Santa Clara, at the tender age of 66, John passed away peacefully surrounded by his family and friends after a 9 week pulmonary illness.

John was born to Joseph Albanese ’40 and Rose Albanese on June 1, 1948, grew up with his sister Mary Jo (Riehl), cousins Tom Albanese ’68 and Bill Albanese, and Joy (Stockton). John attended St. Martin of Tours for grade school, Bellarmine College Preparatory, and ultimately Santa Clara University. Prior to finishing Santa Clara, he valiantly fought for his country in Vietnam for two tours prior to being honorably discharged.

Upon his return from Vietnam, he spent some time working for his Uncle Carmen at Central Concrete Supply before returning to his father's business, Joseph J. Albanese, Inc. (JJA). John worked at JJA and ultimately succeeded his father in the early 80's. Under John's legendary leadership, the organization has grown from a small organization to an iconic enterprise, while retaining the core values his father taught him- integrity, community, and commitment to our employees.

Albanese led the Santa Clara-based company that his father, Joseph, started in 1955 to become the Valley’s 15th largest private company, according to the Business Journal’s 2013 list of Largest Private Employers. It reported more than 800 employees last year.

John Albanese was raised in the industry. He started helping his father when he was just 6 years old, and took over when his father retired in the early 1980s. The company, now in its third generation of family leadership, has worked on some of the biggest jobs in the Bay Area — from Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital in Palo Alto and the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco to Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara. But it also does plenty of smaller jobs as well.

His company also completed work at Bellarmine College Prep and Santa Clara University, both schools from which he graduated.

Gary Filizetti ’67, MBA ’69, president of general contractor Devcon Construction Inc., first met Albanese at Santa Clara University, where they briefly played football together. He said Albanese had a stellar reputation in the industry and was known for his generosity and kindness.

“He was just a very caring guy and had a big heart,” said Filizetti, who has worked professionally with Albanese for years. “He was dedicated to his company and a great subcontractor to work with. When he committed something to get it done, they got it done.”

In fact, “We just get it done” is the company’s motto, inspired by John Albanese’s service in the military during the Vietnam War. Albanese also came up with the company's bulldog logo and "dogs of war" theme that became a big part of its brand.

“If they made a commitment, they'd keep the commitment,” Filizetti said.

While his business was very important to him, his family always came first. John is survived by loving companion Nora Prentice, devoted children Kevin Albanese ’96, J.D. ’08 (Julie), Chris Albanese, Beth Rogers (Bob) and Phillip Albanese (Lindsey) and grandchildren, Connor and Aiden Albanese and Emily and Madelyn Louise Rogers; all of whom live locally in San Jose.

In his most recent life chapter, John adored spending time with his children and grandchildren. Baseball games for his birthday, dinners on the town, celebrations of his children's accomplishments, and family dinners would always put a smile on his face. He always let the kids be kids and encouraged their creativity, innocence, and genuineness. He will be sorely missed by the three grandchildren that he knew and the one that was born while he was hospitalized fighting his miserable disease.

Everyone that knew John considered him a friend. He was one of the most caring, compassionate, and generous men God ever created. Without fame or notoriety, he cared for more people in this valley than anyone will ever know. His loving and energetic sprit will be missed by every person who was fortunate to have encountered John.

submitted Jul. 15, 2014 12:58P

'70

Janet Samo

Janet Samo M.A. '70 Dec. 2, 1936 - March 7, 2014 Willow Glen resident Janet F. Samo, teacher, high school counselor and therapist, passed on March 7, 2014 at the age of 77. Janet was born in Fairfield, Calif., to Louie Samo and Oliva Semas. She graduated from Armijo High School and San Jose State; received her masters in psychology and MFC license from Santa Clara University. Janet taught in the Fremont Union High School district for more than 30 years. Her colleagues and friends remember her as a devoted counselor who had a special place in her heart for the struggling student and a compassionate, kind, and giving nature. Janet was an avid golfer and tennis player, winning trophies for her talents. She loved the art of kite flying and studied acrylic painting, producing a small collection of her own. Janet also enjoyed many hours of riding free on her red scooter. Janet was a member of the volunteer CHP in San Jose up until her passing and enjoyed spending time supporting community organizations as well as being a member of her homeowners association. Janet's favorite place of respite was Vasona Park in Los Gatos where she spent many afternoons walking in peace or sitting with a friend. Her poem, "Vasona Park" is included in the forthcoming anthology, "Song of Los Gatos," to be released in April 2014. Janet leaves behind her partner, Parthenia M. Hicks; her sisters and brother-in-law, Pati and Jim Norris and Carol Marin; nieces, Nicole Norris J.D. ’02 and Laurie Cross; nephews, Mark, Mike and Tom Marin; cousins, Kathy Samo, Bob Samo and Carolyn Taylor; as well as her beloved Burmese cat Shiloh Rose.

submitted Apr. 22, 2014 10:30P

'70

James Ralph Adkins

He is survived by his wife, Elaine, and two children.

submitted May. 28, 2009 3:54P

'70

James M. Treinen

James Michael Treinen ’70, 65, passed away on June 16, 2014. He was raised in La Habra Heights, Calif., with his five brothers. He attended Santa Clara University and worked at Arthur Andersen and Clark Nuber, then Romac Industries for 24 years. He had a full life with his wife Terri, enjoying travel, golf, biking, bridge and time with their children and grandchildren. In mid-2010 he was diagnosed with ALS. He died surrounded by his family, at home in Edmonds, Wash. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Terri Treinen; and his three children and their families: Nicole, Eric, Jessica & Griffin Trimble; Liz, Matt, Jack & Sadie Wright and Matt, Amy & Elliott Treinen.

Jain had a smile that could brighten a room, loved the outdoors and was always open to new adventures. She took up cycling after her youngest child left for college, and, as an avid mountain and road cyclist, participated in numerous events such as 24 hours of Moab relay race, dozens of long-distance cycling events, and the LIVESTRONG Challenge. She also enjoyed volunteering at cycling events such as the Sea Otter Classic in Monterey, Calif., and was a board member of a number of local cycling clubs. Her adventurous spirit also took her boogie boarding, hiking, and cycling on the Big Island of Hawaii and traveling around the world.

Having lived her entire life in the Bay Area, she graduated from Santa Clara University in 1970 with a B.S. degree in sociology and psychology. In 1978, Jain married Michael Light, and together raised five children in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Although she enjoyed the outdoors, nothing compared to her joy of being a mother and grandmother.

Jain thoroughly enjoyed her more than 22 years as a paralegal, office manager, and personal assistant to Arthur Johnson before retiring in 2010 due to illness.

Gerald "Jerry" A. Ritthaler ’63, MBA ’70: December 5th, 1941 - February 22nd, 2013. Jerry, to his three sons, family, and countless friends, lived life with boundless enthusiasm. He was known to start conversations with a family member, close friend, or perfect stranger (soon to be a friend) by telling them about the best food he's ever had in this life, the greatest game or play he's ever seen, the nicest person he's ever met, or something very simple to the rest of us that simply amazed him. Pops would end the story with the declaration, How cool is that? It sounded like a question, but it was more of a statement about his zest for life and optimism. His enthusiasm was contagious and brought a smile or a laugh to everyone who came into his life, each and every day. Born on December 5, 1941 to Jaconda and Philip Ritthaler in Sacramento, CA, Jerry was destined to make friends and make a strong 1st impression from the day he was born. He grew up in the Sacramento area and attended college at Santa Clara University where he earned a Bachelor's and Master's Degree. After college, he had a successful business career in sales at General Foods, Sunshine Biscuits, and Kroger. Jerry's Bay area roots were an early indicator of one of his great loves in life sports. From the time he could yell and listen to a game on the radio, he developed a great passion for sports, and this passion never wavered for a second. He cheered early and often for the Raiders and Athletics because of his strong California ties, and he never stopped cheering for his beloved Oakland teams, but he added many teams in Georgia to his shirt and hat collection when he moved to Georgia in 1979. Once his three boys Mike, Mark, and Matt attended and graduated from the University of Georgia, he was destined to be a life-long Dawgs fan. Pops also had enough spirit in his heart to add the Falcons to his list of football teams he pulled for. Sundays in the fall were never dull with Jerry around, and he always had the game on and a rooting interest in the outcome no matter who was playing. One of Jerry's other great sports loves was baseball. He started out an Oakland A's fan while in the Bay Area, but after moving to Georgia, he quickly adopted the Atlanta Braves as his favorite team. Pops was always ready to head to the ballpark and watch his beloved Braves with anyone who would go with him. No matter how many times they broke his heart in October, he was ready again the following spring, enthusiastic and full of optimism. When he was not in Atlanta, he was always looking for a good deal on some tickets so he could catch the local team and enjoy a few cold ones at the ball park. Pops also brought this love for baseball to his family. He coached his sons in little league baseball in Scotts Valley, CA, teaching them the fundamentals and never missing a game, but more than anything he taught them a love for baseball, sports, and competition. Pops kept the family baseball tradition and love of sports alive with his grandchildren, attending Matthew's baseball and hockey games, Katie's softball and gymnastics, Daniel's baseball and basketball, and Evan's baseball games. He was a fan of his sports teams and an even bigger fan of his boys and grandchildren. Later in his life, Jerry had the good fortune to meet Marilou, who became his wife in 2011. They enjoyed a loving and devoted marriage for 2 + all too short years, but they filled that time up with passion, laughter, and a great appreciation for the opportunity to find true love late in life. Jerry and Marilou shared their devotation to their Catholic Faith and attended church and bible study regularly together. The marriage of Jerry and Marilou also allowed two families to meet each other and become one as Mike and Daniel, Mark and Mary Beth along with Katie and Matthew, and Matt and Kim were able to meet Michelle and Scott Whitehead and their children Erin and Evan to create a new and loving family. Jerry's gift of bringing people together will never be forgotten. Pops was a father figure to many of his sons' close friends in the Dunwoody, GA area. Now and forever, all of those who were fortunate enough to meet Pops will remember him for his stories. He never bragged about himself, but he never stopped telling proud stories about his sister Phyllis and her husband Scott, the good people he met through his charitable work, the love he had for the choir at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Historic Sweet Auburn, and whomever he was going to meet tomorrow. Jerry had an opinion on everything and it was almost always a positive, kind, and hopeful one. Pops will be greatly missed but never forgotten. If the question is, How cool was that man? The answer is The Coolest of them All.ö We will hear his joyful voice in our heads for the rest of our lives. When Pops passes thru the gates of heaven, a crowd will welcome him. Some will have known him well, others simply heard he was coming, and then he will get back to work checking on his earth bound family and friends. Jerry is survived by his wife, Marilou Ritthaler, of Alpharetta; sons, Mike Ritthaler, of San Rafael, CA, Mark (wife, Mary Beth) Ritthaler, of Atlanta, Matt (wife, Kim) Ritthaler, of San Francisco, CA, step-daughter, Michelle (husband, Scott) Whitehead, of Cumming; grandchildren, Katie Ritthaler, Matthew Ritthaler, Daniel Ritthaler, Erin Whitehead, and Evan Whitehead; sister, Phyllis (husband, Scott) Keilholtz, Sacramento, CA and Nephew Erik Keilholtz (wife, Melanie and daughter, Amalia) of Vallejo, CA.

submitted May. 22, 2013 4:20A

UGRD Arts & Sciences '70

Gary M. Horgan

Gary M. Horgan ’70, 64, will forever be remembered as a devoted and loving husband and father, a well-known and respected banking attorney, and a generous contributor of his time and talent to the community. He passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. In illness as well as in good health, he exhibited his Irish sense of humor, maintained his optimistic spirit, shared his exceptional knowledge, and focused on his family, his lifelong friends, and his law practice. Gary was born in San Francisco, California to the late Barbara and Donald Horgan. After graduating from St. Ignatius College Preparatory School, he served as student body president at Santa Clara University and graduated with a degree in economics. He earned his Juris Doctor degree in 1974 from the University of California at Los Angeles. For the past 37 years, he has been a corporate attorney representing community banks. One of the preeminent banking lawyers in California, he and his partners of thirty-two years established the firm of Horgan, Rosen, Beckham, and Coren. Their partnership, teamwork, and friendship effectively served clients who valued his knowledge, experience, creative thinking, insightful analysis, and ability to relate to each person. He served on various boards, including County Commerce Bank and Monica Ros School. He regaled those he met with his sense of humor, his unique and elegant command of the English language, and his unparalleled knowledge of American and European history. He was a mentor, a friend, and a highly sought after counselor. Gary deeply loved his family and always made them his priority.

He is survived by his wife, Sue Horgan, their daughters, Michelle and Shannon, his sisters, Donna Kearney (Kevin) and Jan Donovan (Dan) and his nieces and nephews.

submitted Jan. 26, 2012 12:26P

GRD Engineering '70

Frank S. Greene

Frank S. Greene '70 died Dec. 26, 2009. A pioneering technologist, he is one of 63 inductees into the Silicon Valley Engineering Hall of Fame.

Hailed as one of the first African-American technologists, Greene developed high-speed semiconductor computer-memory systems at Fairchild Microconductor R&D Labs in the 1960s and started two technology companies and later founded NewVista Capital, a venture firm with a special focus on minority- and female-headed firms. He also launched the GO-Positive Foundation, which offers leadership progams for high school and college students. He was honored as one of the 50 most important African-Americans in technology in an exhibit at Palo Alto's City Hall. He was the first African-American cadet to make it through the four-year Air Force ROTC program in 1961 and became a captain. He earned a master's degree from Purdue University and after earning his doctorate in electrical engineering and computer science from SCU taught at five universities, including SCU.

In 2009 he told the Palo Alto Times, “Success in life is not about ‘me,’ but about what you can do to help others.” He put this philosophy into practice over the course of his life, launching the GO-Positive Foundation and his VRE (Vision, Relationships and Execution) Leadership Model, through which he mentored and served as an inspiration to high school students and young business professionals. For his many contributions to engineering and society, Greene was awarded the School of Engineering’s highest honor, the Distinguished Engineering Alumnus Award, and was inducted into the Silicon Valley Engineering Hall of Fame by the Silicon Valley Engineering Council in 1991.
Dedicated to fostering excellence through leadership training and education, Greene helped countless individuals realize their dreams by lending his time, his knowledge, and his support.

SCU alumnus Bob Ulicki M.S. ’72 writes: “Dr. Greene showed a genuine interest in all of us who attended his classes. Independent of his awards and accomplishments, Frank was a human being who cared about others.”

He sat on the board of numerous technology start-ups and was a trustee emeritus at SCU and a member of the Kenna Club's board of directors. He is survived by three children.

submitted Feb. 21, 2010 10:15P

'70

Fess Parker

Fess Parker Hon. '70, a televison icon to a generation of youngsters as Davy Crockett and later Daniel Boone, died at the age of 85 of natural causes. Parker, who was also a major California winemaker and developer, died at his Santa Ynez Valley home on March 18, 2010, on the 84th birthday of his wife of 50 years, Marcella. The 6-foot, 6-inch Parker was quickly embraced by 1950s children as the man in a coonskin cap who stood for the spirit of the American frontier. Baby boomers gripped by the Crockett craze scooped up Davy lunch boxes, toy Old Betsy rifles, buckskin shirts and trademark fur caps. "The Ballad of Davy Crockett" ("Born on a mountaintop in Tennessee...") was a No. 1 hit for singer Bill Hayes while Parker's own version reached No. 5. "Fess Parker has been a role model and idol of mine since I first saw him on the big screen—he is a true Hollywood legend," said California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger in a statement. "As a talented actor and successful businessman, he was an inspirational Californian whose contributions to our state will be remembered forever."

Former first lady Nancy Reagan said Parker was "a longtime friend to Ronnie and me ... He will be greatly missed." The first installment of Davy Crockett, with Buddy Ebsen as Crockett's sidekick, debuted in December 1954 as part of the Disneyland TV show. The first three television episodes were turned into a theatrical film, Davy Crockett, King of the Wild Frontier, in 1955.

Parker's career leveled off when the Crockett craze died down, but he made a TV comeback from 1964-1970 in the title role of the TV adventure series Daniel Boone—also based on a real-life American frontiersman. Actor-singer Ed Ames, formerly of the Ames Brothers, played Boone's Indian friend, Mingo. After Daniel Boone, Parker largely retired from show business, except for guest appearances, and went into real estate.

"I left the business after 22 years," Parker told The Associated Press in 2001. "It was time to leave Hollywood. I came along at a time when I'm starting out with Gary Cooper, John Wayne, Sterling Hayden, and Gregory Peck."

"Who needed a guy running around in a coonskin cap?" he said. Parker had made his motion picture debut in Springfield Rifle in 1952. His other movies included No Room for the Groom (1952), The Kid From Left Field (1953), Them! (1954), The Great Locomotive Chase (1956), Westward Ho, the Wagons! (1956), Old Yeller (1957) and The Light in the Forest (1958).

After departing Hollywood, Parker got into real estate with his wife, Marcella, whom he had married in 1960. He bought and sold property, built hotels (including the elegant Fess Parker's Wine Country Inn & Spa in Los Olivos and Fess Parker's Doubletree Resort Santa Barbara) and grew wine grapes on a 2,200-acre vineyard on California's Central Coast, where he was dubbed King of the Wine Frontier and coonskin caps enjoyed brisk sales. After its inaugural harvest in 1989, Parker's vineyard won dozens of medals and awards. The Parkers' son, Eli, became director of winemaking and their daughter, Ashley, also worked at the winery.

Parker was a longtime friend of Ronald Reagan, whose Western White House was not far from the Parker vineyards. Reagan sent Parker to Australia in 1985 to represent him during an event, and when Parker returned he was asked by White House aide Michael Deaver if he was interested in being ambassador to that country.

"In the end, I decided I'd better take myself out of it. But I was flattered," Parker said. Parker also once considered a U.S. Senate bid, challenging Alan Cranston. But Nevada Sen. Paul Laxalt said it would be a rough campaign, and a key dissenter lived under the same roof.

Parker played football at Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene but was injured in a nearly fatal road-rage knifing in 1946. He later earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Texas.

submitted May. 24, 2010 4:04P

'70

Evelyn Roddy

Evelyn E. Roddy M.A. ’70 lost her battle with cancer on March 21, 2014 at the age of 80. She was a long-time resident of Sacramento, Calif. She was born in Jackson, Calif. and graduated from CSUS with a degree in Liberal Arts. She went on to earn her Master's Degree in 17th Century English Literature from Santa Clara University. She retired from the Department of Motor Vehicles as a manager after 20 years of service. She is survived by her sister, Margaret Harrell (James), and her many nieces and nephews.

submitted Apr. 22, 2014 10:27P

GRD Leavey/MBA '70

Curtis Richmond Wherry

Curtis Richmond Wherry MBA ’70 of Davis passed away on Jan. 20, 2011, after a short illness. He was born July 8, 1930, to Mary and Reese Wherry and grew up with his sister Marillyn in Modesto and lived at the Hotel Hughson which his parents owned. Curt attended Enslen Elementary, Roosevelt Junior High and Modesto High School. He graduated Modesto Junior College and married his high school sweetheart Joyce Hatfield. They moved to Berkeley so Curt could attend UC Berkeley and acquire his B.S. in Chemistry. Curt and Joyce had two daughters, Pamela Sue and Wendela Ann. Curt worked for Ortho upon graduation. He then relocated to Los Altos and went to work for Stanford Research Institute where he began a career as personnel coordinator in classified defense research. He went back to school to obtain a master's degree at Santa Clara University. Curt met his second wife in 1970, Harriet (Bink) Goff and married her in 1972. Curt then became step-father to Brian McCartney. After 20 or so years at SRI Curt went on to work at Stanford University's chemistry department managing and doing research. He then retired and became a broker in commercial real estate. Curt relocated to Davis after he became a widower and moved into University Retirement Center in 2000. Curt's favorite times were spent with his longtime friends from Modesto. Curt is survived by his daughters Pamela and Wendela, his step-son Brian, six grandchildren, Lance Hutson, Amy, David, Elliot, Andrew Basmajian, Jackson McCartney, and five great-grandchildren, Jessica Hutson, Easton and Knox Ehrlich, Taylor and Reagan Basmajian. Preceding him in death were his wife Harriet Wherry and his sister Marillyn Rowson.

submitted Feb. 15, 2011 10:27A

'70

Clarence Bud Sorvaag

Clarence “Bud” Sorvaag MBA '70, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2010, in Brookings, Ore., at Macklyn House, where he has resided since March 2008. Bud, 93, was born Sept. 20, 1916, in Portland, Ore., the son of Matt, a commercial fisherman, and Eva, emigrants from Norway and Finland. He was very proud of his Scandinavian heritage and attributed his long and healthy life to time spent in his Finnish sauna and eating fish that he caught from his boat that he moored for many seasons in the Brookings harbor. Bud attended grammar and high schools in Portland and graduated from Oregon State University in 1939 with a bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering, where he had memberships in two honor societies – Eta Kappa Nu and Tau Beta Pi. While working for Montana State University, Bozeman, in the early 1960s, he was awarded a membership in Sigma Xi for his work in research for the engineering department. He also earned a masters in business administration from Santa Clara University. Bud met his future bride, Dorothy, “Kim,” while they were both working at the radiation laboratory at Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1944. They were married in Oakland, Calif., in 1945. Bud and Kim moved to Brookings in 1972. They left Los Altos, in the San Francisco Bay Area, where he worked in electrical engineering for several large companies, including Sylvania and Lockheed. His second career in Brookings was in real estate and appraisal services during which he owned his own business, Brookings/ Harbor Realty, which kept him very busy and fulfilled until his retirement later in the 1990s. He would often reflect to his family how great it was to be his own boss. Bud was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years. Kim passed away Oct. 19, 2008, in Brookings. He is survived by daughter Amy Lindman of Malaga, Wash.; sons Chris Sorvaag of Oregon and Robert Sorvaag of Idaho. He was an elder at the Brookings First Baptist Community Church. He enjoyed fellowship in weekly Bible study groups. His lifelong hobbies included being a HAM radio operator since his teenage years; hunting ducks and geese over rice fields near Willows, Calif., while living in the Bay Area; fishing for salmon in the ocean off Brookings; and hunting mule deer in the Steens Mountains of eastern Oregon.

submitted Jun. 7, 2010 11:07A

GRD Law '70

Charles R. Findlay

Charles R. Findlay J.D. '70 died Dec. 3, 2009. He passed away peacefully at the age of 83. Born on February 23, 1926 in upstate New York, he served in the U.S. Air Force, was a graduate of Santa Clara University Law School, and was a devoted grandfather. In the late 1970s, he left law behind and started a new chapter in life when he bought Able Catering. During this time he met and became long time friends with Chiu and Henry Lee of Lee Brothers' Catering, where he continued to work until his passing. In addition to his Lee Family, he leaves beind his children, Samuel, Jim, Sarah, Will, and Thomasina, and his loving grandchildren, Krystal, Andrew, Matthew, Kyle, Shaun, Brandon, Alyssa, Jordan, and Cameron. He was preceded in death by his spouse, Adriana, and his siblings. He touched many lives through his generosity and willingness to help others. He will be truly missed.